Some books just kind of take you over and this was the case with this one. Totally captivated, I eventually emerged refreshed and challenged.
I started reading George Mackay Brown when I was a student. I was immediately impressed with the way he used simple language to convey the deepest truths. The words just seemed to glow as if they had a connection with another world. It was disappointing, though, to see how negative he was was about Presbyterianism or rather his idea of Presbyterianism. And I have to confess I did not recognise his over-idealised projection of Roman Catholicism. But I kept going back for more because the artistic achievement was beyond doubt.
Ron Ferguson has done a great job in seeking to gain a hold on a very complex man and his spiritual journey and in the process conveys something of his own. He is critical of GMB’s almost willful distortion of Presbyterianism but he understands why he was attracted to the Roman Catholic faith and appreciates why it became such an important resource in the writing. Ferguson is impressively even-handed in his assessment of both Christian traditions highlighting strengths and weaknesses.
One of the most moving passages in the book describes the funeral service for GMB which was held in St. Magnus’ Cathedral in Orkney where Ferguson was minister. This would only be the second time a Roman Catholic mass would be celebrated in the Cathedral since the Reformation. Despite granting permission for this to take place Ferguson is told by Bishop Mario Conti, albeit apologetically, that he will not be offered communion. The author understands why this must be but writes:
‘Nevertheless, it is hurtful to be excluded from participation in the Eucharist in the cathedral of which I am minister, especially at a service celebrating the life of a friend whose Catholicism was so inclusive.’
At the service itself Ferguson sees only the Roman Catholics leaving their seats to receive communion ‘while those who worship each week in St Magnus Cathedral are onlookers.’ He goes on: ‘The pain at the heart of the fractured Christian community is palpable.’
Throughout the book the author speaks to those who were closest to GMB and allows them to tell their stories but I think what will remain with me is the way the author’s story unfolds. He has a distinctive voice which comes through and we learn much about his searching and, indeed, yearning.
